Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Shoulder - How It Is Done

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test
is usually done by an MRI technologist. The resulting pictures are usually
interpreted by a
radiologist. But some other types of doctors, such as
an
orthopedic surgeon, can also interpret a shoulder MRI
scan.

You will need to remove all metal objects (such as hearing
aids, dentures, jewelry, watches, and hairpins) from your body because these
objects may be attracted to the powerful magnet used for the test.

You will need to take off all or most of your clothes, depending on which
area is examined (you may be allowed to keep on your underwear if it is not in
the way). You will be given a gown to use during the test. If you are allowed
to keep some of your clothes on, you should empty your pockets of any coins and
cards (such as credit cards or ATM cards) with scanner strips on them because
the MRI magnet may erase the information on the cards.

During the
test, you will lie on your back on a table that is part of the MRI scanner. The
table will slide into the space that contains the magnet. A device called a
coil may be placed over or wrapped around the area to be scanned.

Some people feel nervous (claustrophobic) inside the MRI magnet. If
feeling nervous keeps you from lying still, you can be given a medicine
(sedative) to help you relax. Some MRI machines (called open MRI) are made so
that the magnet does not enclose your entire body. Open MRI machines may be
helpful if you are claustrophobic. See pictures of a
standard MRI machine and an
open MRI machine.

Inside the scanner, you will hear a fan and feel
air moving. You may also hear tapping or snapping noises as the MRI scans are
taken. You may be given earplugs or headphones with music to reduce the noise.
It is very important to hold completely still while the scan is being done. You
may be asked to hold your breath for short periods of time.

During
the test, you may be alone in the scanner room. But the technologist will watch
you through a window. You will be able to talk with the technologist through a
two-way intercom.

If contrast material is needed, the
technologist will usually put it in through an IV in your arm or hand.
The injection may be given over 1 to 2 minutes.

Contrast material
may be put directly into your shoulder joint by the radiologist. Your doctor
will make your shoulder numb (local anesthetic) before putting in the
contrast material. Then more MRI scans are done for this part of the test. This
is called a magnetic resonance arthrogram.

An MRI test usually
takes 30 to 60 minutes but can take as long as 2 hours.

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